Negotiations for Public Sector Employees’ Wages Off to a Rocky Start
The Left party has criticized the start of wage negotiations for public sector employees, with no offer from the employers. “I think it’s wrong to enter into negotiations without an offer from the employers” said Left party leader Ines Schwerdtner on Tuesday afternoon. “It’s also a sign of respect and recognition to present a serious offer.”
Schwerdtner urged the federal government and municipalities to quickly deliver a proposal. “If they don’t, they will provoke further strikes” she warned. Employees’ frustration is understandable, she said, as prices for energy and food continue to rise and housing in many cities becomes unaffordable. Real wages are still at the level of 2015, as inflation has consumed all wage increases.
“The 2.5 million public sector employees keep the country running, whether in kindergartens, hospitals, or fire departments. Without them, nothing would function here” Schwerdtner emphasized. “Therefore, it is only just for them to demand a fair wage and better working conditions.” The difficulty for the federal government and municipalities in finding new staff will only increase, she added, “unless the working conditions are right, young people will not decide to work in the public sector. That’s why employers must quickly deliver and present a good offer.